Camden Town

Overview

Camden Town is London's legendary hub of alternative culture, punk music, and massive, chaotic open-air markets. It remains a loud, bustling, and spirited area defined by its musical heritage.

Highlights

• Camden Market: A sprawling, dense collection of adjoining markets selling everything from vintage leather jackets to incredible global street food.
• The Regent's Canal: The beautiful, historic shipping canal running right through the center of the market, complete with traditional painted narrowboats.
• The High Street: Characterized by the massive, incredibly 3D fiberglass sculptures boldly protruding off the building facades above the packed shops.

History

Originally an incredibly significant industrial powerhouse centered around the canal and railway. By the 1970s, it transformed into the beating heart of the emerging punk and rock music scene.

Visitor Tips

• Weekdays: Camden is remarkably, uncomfortably packed on weekends. Visit on a Thursday or Friday to actually be able to browse the stalls comfortably.
• The Lock: Grab food from the innumerable street vendors and sit on the canal lock or on a vintage scooter seat facing the water.
• Duration: 3–4 hours.